Black Swan (Japanese Version)

BTS's 'Black Swan (Japanese Version)' delves deep into the internal struggles and fears that come with being an artist. The song opens with a repetitive call to 'Do your thang,' which can be interpreted as a plea for authenticity and self-expression. This is juxtaposed with the haunting question, 'What's my thang?'—a reflection of the uncertainty and self-doubt that often plague creatives. The lyrics suggest a battle between the desire to create and the fear of losing one's passion, encapsulated in the line, 'Oh, that would be my first death, I been always afraid of.'

The imagery in the song is vivid and poignant. The 'heart beat' that 'won't move' and the feeling of 'time stopping' convey a sense of paralysis and existential dread. The metaphor of the ocean swallowing the singer's feet and the surrounding darkness ('umi ga hikari nomikomi' and 'mawari wa yami') symbolizes the overwhelming nature of these fears. The repeated phrase 'Killin' me now' underscores the intensity of this internal conflict, as if the very act of losing one's artistic drive is akin to a slow, painful death.

However, the song also offers a glimmer of hope. The lyrics speak of opening one's eyes slowly and finding a personal studio, a metaphor for rediscovering one's creative space and identity. The line 'Inside I saw myself, myself' suggests a moment of self-realization and acceptance. Despite the 'aranami' (raging waves) that threaten to consume, the singer resolves to stand firm and raise their voice. This resilience is a testament to the enduring spirit of artists who, despite their fears and doubts, continue to seek and express their true selves.